MOA to assist fisherfolk in Cordova, Consolacion

CEBU, Philippines — The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources-7 inked a memorandum of agreement with Cebu Sixth District Representative Daphne Lagon to promote food security by increasing fish production, generate economic transformation, and uplift the socio-economic condition of the fisherfolk beneficiaries in the town of Cordova.

Lagon said that she will coordinate closely with Cordova Fisherfolk Association for a regular monitoring of the project.

Cordova Mayor Cesar Suan, who also signed the MOA, said that the town has always been thankful to congresswoman for her assistance to Cordovanhons.

“I will personally ensure that this project will not be put in vain. As to sustainability, we will work together with the local fisherfolk members," said Suan.

Under the MOA, BFAR-7 will provide local fisherfolk associations fish pens with fingerlings and feed inputs amounting to P350,000.

“With proper management, these fingerlings are expected to boost productivity and ensure a stable source of income for the fisherfolk. This is also aligned with the program's goal to alleviate poverty and improve the living conditions of the marginalized fisherfolk and their communities,” the municipality says in its Facebook post.

The MOA stated that the government recognizes the need to promote food security by increasing fish production through accelerated transfer of fisheries technology and training of fisherfolk as direct participants in the proper management of our marine water resources.

It says that in support of the National Fisheries Program of the government and to alleviate poverty and uplift the socio-economic condition of the fisherfolk beneficiaries, BFAR has implemented the Targeted Action to Reduce Poverty and Generate Economic Transformation (TARPGET) program by providing "Livelihood Input-Assisted Projects" to qualified fisherfolk associations as an alternative source of income in the 6th District of Cebu.

The TARPGET is a regular program and continued effort of the Department of Agriculture- BFAR that intends to contribute to the reduction of poverty through increased food production and productivity in the target areas by providing the appropriate technology as livelihood intervention to make the farmers and fisherfolk productive and empower.

Also covered by the MOA is the other town in the district, Consolacion, which under the MOA, will also be given four FRP Boats amounting to P75,000 each and ten seaweed implement at P10,000 each. — (FREEMAN)